GIRLFRIEND GETAWAYS

13 Spas With Breathtaking Views

Sometimes what's on the outside matters as much as what's on the inside. That's certainly true at these world spas, where the views are as enriching as the treatments. From Venice’s iconic St. Mark’s Square to the glaciers of Alaska, we found 13 spas where you can take in million-dollar views for the price of a massage.

See St. Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace—Venice's most famous landmarks—from lounge of the Bauers Palladio Hotel & Spa.

(Courtesy the Bauers Palladio Hotel Spa)

Usually relaxing involves sitting back with your eyes closed. But you might not want to even blink in these spas, where the view out the window (or from the hot tub, or even your private bungalow) will get your heart racing. From the desert of Arizona to a jungle in Belize to the 116th floor of a Hong Kong tower, we've found 13 spas worth traveling to for the view alone. Some even encourage you to come early and sit back in the lounge, taking in views of the city, the ocean, or even the jungle. Best of all, basic treatments like waxing and manicures at these spas are priced as low as $11. We also highlighted some of the best values, like a $67 tension-releasing massage at the Dead Sea or an $80 mud treatment in Belize to help soothe your skin after a day under the Caribbean sun. Combine that with a spectacular view, and there will be a lot to say ahhhh about.

BERMUDALimestone cliffs against the sea.Ocean views are one of the top reasons to travel to Bermuda, and the La Serena spa at The Reefs Hotel & Club delivers. The view of the soft pink sand and transparent water are pure Bermuda. Spa guests are even asked to come 30 minutes early to sip herbal tea or fruit-infused water while soaking in the dramatic views of the Atlantic from the floor to ceiling windows of the relaxation room. Best Deal The 45-minute Exotic Lime and Ginger Salt Glow really does leave your skin smooth and stimulated ($89). 56 South Shore Road, Southampton, Bermuda, 011-441/239-0184, thereefs.com. Treatments from $20.

ALASKADramatic peaks and glaciers in the Last Frontier.It's hard to find landscape more impressive than Alaska's, and The Spa at Alyeska sits in a valley surrounded by glaciers and the jagged peaks of the Chugach Mountains. Start your trip to the spa (about 45 minutes southeast of Anchorage) by taking it all in from the saltwater hot tub. Then retire to a treatment room, where you can choose services that include some of the areas natural resources like arctic mud and geo-thermal waters. Best Deal The 50-minute Alaska Glacial Facial uses the arctic mud—said to have anti-aging properties—to exfoliate and detoxify skin ($129). 1000 Arlberg Ave., Girdwood, Alaska, 907/754-2550, alyeskaresort.com. Treatments from $29.

CROATIAThe sparkling blue waters of the Dalmatian Coast.The Adriatic Sea is on full display on the southern shore of Croatia. Guests at the Spa by Occo at the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa at Dubrovnik Sun Gardens can turn in all directions to see the different angles of the unspoiled Elafiti islands and the stunning blues of the sea. Take advantage of the panorama from the lagoon pool and the spa garden before exploring the spa's other highlights, including a traditional coal sauna, a hammam, and an aromatherapy steam room. Best Deal The spa features sea salt hydrotherapy treatments, including a 55-minute treatment that combines a dip in the hydrotherapy bath with one of the signature wood pulp body polishes ($83). 1 Na Moru, Dubrovnik, Croatia, 011-385/20-361-970, radissonblu.com. Treatments from $14.

SCOTLANDWatch a rolling mist and swaying heather.Framed by the heather and woods surrounding Loch Lomond, the Carrick Spa at the Cameron House has spectacular views across the loch to Ben Lomond, especially from the rooftop terrace and infinity pool. Don't worry if there is a very Scottish misty rain falling: you can heat up in the infrared sauna, the Roman-inspired tepidarium, or the aromatherapy steam room. Best Deal Visit the spa during the week (Monday through Friday), when prices are lower. An 80-minute massage using balms from Pure Lochside—an all-organic brand of products made in the Highlands—is $172 ($202 on Saturday and Sunday). Alexandria, Scotland, 011-44/1389-713-659, devere-hotels.co.uk. Treatments from $41.

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